From site selection to the final inspection, construction is a complex process requiring collaboration across many disciplines. One group of professionals who contribute to the finished feel of a project are landscape architects — even though their work is more subtly experienced than viewing a shiny, new structure.

MORE NEWS: Construction industry insights: What Arizona leaders are seeing

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS: Want more news like this? Get our free newsletter here

Here are four ways the profession impacts the built environment:

“We’re often seen as the tree people, but nature-based solutions can result in cost savings. For example, underground water storage costs a lot of money. But why pay for tanks when you can keep that water on site or at grade level? We understand topography, and that knowledge can help inform where to place a building or an outdoor space. Most people don’t know we can help with those things.” — Marc Beyer, principal at TRUEFORM Landscape Architecture Studio 

“Landscape architects connect people to nature and to each other. The benefit for the commercial world is that it makes those spaces much more sought after. We don’t care if the person working in the building can point out why they love a particular space, but we use nature to make places more comfortable, appealing and memorable.” — Todd Briggs, principal at TRUEFORM Landscape Architecture Studio 

“As part of the visioning process, we find out what the space requires. What should the customer experience be as they move through it? That informs the design and how everything flows together. Finding those touch points is what makes people feel like they’re walking through a first-class resort or up to a high-end restaurant.” — Ted Cambell, director of marketing at Creative Environments 

“We have a strong belief regarding the environmental needs of our Valley and that projects should have the appropriate land ethic to help us continue to live here. It’s important for our profession to be engaged in sustainability and make sure people are thinking about how to use less water and be good stewards of nature.” — Roger Socha, principal at TRUEFORM Landscape Architecture Studio